Description
Lebanese Kafta are juicy, herb-infused patties made from ground beef or lamb combined with fresh parsley, aromatic spices, and grated onion. Perfectly grilled or pan-seared to golden perfection, these flavorful patties are delicious served with pita bread or rice and complemented by tangy lemon and creamy sauces like tahini or yogurt.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Herbs
- 1 lb Ground Beef or Lamb (can mix both for richer flavor or substitute with lean ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 medium Grated Onion (drained well to prevent excess moisture)
- 1 cup Chopped Parsley (cilantro can be used as a substitute)
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic (adjust quantity based on preference or use garlic powder)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1 tsp Salt (essential for flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Pepper (adjust to preference)
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne (optional for added heat)
Cooking and Serving
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for grilling or pan-searing)
- 1 medium Lemon (for added brightness)
- 4 pieces Pita or Rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather and prepare all ingredients including grating the onion and chopping the parsley to be ready for mixing.
- Mixing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, cumin, allspice, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Mix thoroughly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is sticky and well combined.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into logs or patties about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick. Arrange them neatly on a platter, ready for cooking.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C) or heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
- Cook Kafta: Grill or pan-sear the patties for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully to achieve even browning and an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe doneness.
- Rest and Serve: Let the kafta rest for a minute after cooking. Serve with warm pita bread or rice, and drizzle with lemon juice and optionally tahini or yogurt sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Drain the grated onion thoroughly to prevent excess moisture which can affect the texture of the patties.
- Substitute cilantro for parsley if preferred, or mix both for a unique flavor.
- Adjust garlic and cayenne levels according to taste preference.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure kafta reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Serve kafta with fresh lemon wedges, pita bread, rice, and optional sauces like tahini or yogurt to enhance the meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Keywords: Lebanese Kafta, Kafta recipe, herb patties, ground beef patties, grilled Kafta, Middle Eastern meat patties, parsley kafta, allspice kafta
